Head, Strategic Communications (P-5)

Category : Public Affairs Branch - (0703)/Head, Public Affairs & OPCW Spokesperson - (F0157-21)
Contract Type : Fixed-term Professional
Job Details :
The Public Affairs Branch (PAB) is part of the External Relations Division (ERD). ERD leads on external relations policy; promotes universal adherence to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and liaises with governments, international organisations, the media, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in promoting the mission, activities and achievements of the Organisation. PAB provides support regarding engagement with States Parties, the public, and other identified stakeholders, such as scientists, civil society, academia, and industry. The results-focused mission of the PAB is to present the face, amplify the voice, extend the reach and raise the profile of the OPCW with the aim of conveying the important work of the Organisation and the global endeavour for a world permanently free of chemical weapons. The Head, Strategic Communications reports to the Director, External Relations, under the overall strategic direction of senior leadership, and provides leadership in advancing OPCW's communications, public diplomacy and stakeholder engagement. The position leads the PAB and serves as the OPCW Spokesperson. In addition, the position provides advice to senior leadership on strategic internal and external communications, change-management messaging, media engagement and public outreach. The incumbent is responsible for developing, implementing and monitoring the impact of the OPCW's communications strategy. Responsibilities 1) Strategic Communications Lead the development and implementation of the OPCW's communication strategy and campaigns aimed at strengthening the Organisation's visibility and raising public understanding of the CWC and OPCW activities; Coordinate external communications across the Secretariat, ensuring coherent, evidence-based messaging that reflects organisational priorities and expert advice; Serve as OPCW Spokesperson and primary point of contact for media and related stakeholders, leading media engagement, press briefings and official communications on behalf of the Director-General and the Organisation; Advise senior leadership on external communications, including reputation management, crisis communications, information integrity and resilience against disinformation and misinformation; Advise senior leadership on internal communications and change-management messaging to support major organisational initiatives and periods of organisational change; Monitor and assess media and other communication trends related to the OPCW, identifying emerging risks and opportunities and recommending strategic approaches to strengthen the OPCW's visibility and increase public engagement; Proactively maintain and expand OPCW's network of media contacts, press, governmental agencies, international institutions, research institutes, non-governmental organisations, and other target groups; Provide strategic advice and media coaching to the Director-General (DG) and the Deputy Director-General (DDG) on media engagement.

2) Leadership and Management of the Public Affairs Branch Lead PAB and direct its human and financial resources, ensuring effective workforce planning, performance management and staff development in support of organisational objectives; Lead the development and delivery of communication, public diplomacy and outreach initiatives, campaigns and products, ensuring coherent messaging and effective public engagement in support of the OPCW's mandate and the CWC; Develop and oversee content on the OPCW website and social media platforms, including the official digital channels of the DG and DDG, ensuring their relevance, accuracy, accessibility and effectiveness as part of the digital communications strategy and operations; Lead the review and implementation of policies and directives on media and public affairs; Ensure regular and timely media reporting and analysis in coordination with other OPCW divisions. 3) Stakeholder Engagement Coordinate engagement of external OPCW related stakeholders in a strategic way, including NGOs, youth groups, think tanks and associations. Provide strategic direction for the participation of civil society organisations and other stakeholders in relevant activities of the Organisation, including the Conference of the States Parties; Lead the strategic communication planning, message design and overall organisational preparation of public events, including OPCW special days, in-person and virtual Group Visits programme and other OPCW outreach activities, special projects or exhibitions; Serve as the OPCW's principal media liaison point with the United Nations, other international organisations, and external partners, fostering strategic partnerships and participating in inter-agency networks and initiatives to expand outreach and enhance the Organisation's visibility and impact; Advocate for adherence to OPCW policies on Media and Public Affairs and OPCW branding guidelines, quality content, and high-impact strategies. 4) Perform other duties as required.